MEMBERS of a planning committee will visit a former elderly people's home to discuss a proposal to convert it into offices for a volunteer organisation.

Derwentside Community Volunteer Service (CVS) has submitted plans to the local authority for Glenroyd House, in Medomsley Road, Consett.

The home, which has been targeted by vandals and arsonists, was earmarked for demolition but saved by Durham county councillors.

They chose to lease it to the CVS for a peppercorn rent.

The organisation estimates it service will attract 20 to 30 visitors a day, based on experience at The Tommy Armstrong Centre, in Stanley.

Principal planning officer Fiona Clarke has advised councillors to back the scheme.

She said: "For many years, Glenroyd House was a county council care home, but it has been vacant for several years.

"It is understood that the premises would be used for offices for the organisation, together with offices for community groups and other organisations.

"Part of the building would be converted to meeting rooms, which would be used by a wide variety of organisations and groups."

Derwentside District Council leader Alex Watson had argued the site was a poor location for a community facility and plans would cause traffic congestion.

At a recent meeting, members of the development control committee said they wanted to visit the site.

The inspection will take place on Monday at 6pm.